13.1 Things I Learned

On Saturday, February 18, I became a half-marathoner.  I guess the pain, like with childbirth, will fade with time.  Here are the things I want to remember though.

1.  Running with other other people is incredibly motivating.  My fastest mile was just at 9 minutes.
2.  Jelly beans are way cheaper than those "POWER" chews and work just as well.
3.  Pandora Radio is a lifesaver.  I love not knowing what will come on next...
4.  Running roads that you know makes time go by so faster.  I had never been all the way down Touchton  Road....worst.road.ever!
5.  My OCD says I should run on lines.  Something about the line on the edge of the road is soothing....
6.  No matter how cold you are at the start, less clothing is always better.
7.  In my mind waving at cars as they pass will discourage them from hitting and/or kidnapping me.
8.  FIFTEEN DOLLAR SOCKS ARE SO WORTH IT!
9.  Finishing was my primary focus, but I won't lie I had a time goal in mind.
10.  I got to a point between 7-11 miles that I really have no recollection of....I think once you zone out, it is easier to keep running.
11.  Honestly, between miles 11-12 I was trying to figure out how I could die...literally......and I started talking to myself....may sound cheesy but I was my own cheerleader!
12.  At mile 12.something, we passed the cemetary.....filled with great people that have gone on to their reward....  2 Timothy 4:7....they had run the race, they had finished the course....on a much grander scale of course.
13.  Turning left back onto Dasher Rd....mind you I have seen the GCS gyms more times than I could ever count....but at that moment, it was beautiful!  Thanks to my family for screaming and cheering.....thanks DC, Abby, and Anna for all the times you change yoru schedules and hang out at Granny's or listen to the noisy treadmill!
13.1  I will run another one!